Shelly Petnov-Sherman

Psychoanalytic psychotherapist (LCSW, Certificate in Psychoanalysis) she/her/hers


About me

I am empathetic therapist specializing in supporting individuals within the music industry. With a deep understanding of the unique stressors that musicians, producers, and industry professionals face, I provide a safe space for exploration and growth. My background in psychoanalysis and passion for the arts drive my commitment to addressing the specific challenges of a music career.

Navigating the dynamic world of music requires resilience, and I am here to help you cultivate it. Through a collaborative and relational approach, we can tackle performance anxiety, tight deadlines, and other industry-related pressures. Let’s work together to develop strategies for stress management, enhance your well-being, and foster personal and professional growth. I’m here to support your transformative journey.


My background

I have over thirty years of experience working as a psychoanalytic psychotherapist. I have a private practice as well as teach and supervise other therapists. I have always believed mental health resources should be available to everyone. I have a long history working pro bono NYC-based non-profit organizations such as Health Right International, Fostering Connection and the 9ll Disaster Counseling Coalition Inc.
My love of both the music industry and working as therapist led my working with MITC.


Working with me

I am extensively trained in “talk therapy” drawing upon psychoanalysis, developmental and relational theories. We delve into the intricate layers of your experiences, thoughts and memories tracing patterns of how the past influences present behaviors and relationships. Together we create a safe and empathic space to facilitate to explore thoughts, emotions and desires. Working with me is a process where we collaborate so that you begin to become curious about yourself.

The therapeutic relationship is essential for personal growth and positive change.

Session are usually 45 minutes long and I work with the your schedule. I work virtually as well as in person. I am open to consultations,, assessments, diagnoses with a specialization in trauma, abuse, incest, life transitions as well aging.

Prior to training as a therapist, I worked for WABC-AM as the music director, Elektra/Asylum/Nonesuch Records, Millenium Records, Lifesong Records in marketing /advertising.



Shelly’s fees

Session fees:
$0-$300 sliding scale. Clinical assessments $300 for 90 minutes.
Shelly offers:
Intro call
Initial consultation

Free telephone consult; free 45-min initial consultation.

Contact Shelly:
You can email Shelly on shellypetnovsherman@gmail.com.
Tel: 212-595-5210

Location: New York City

Sees clients: In-person (New York City) and online (NY State)

Client groups: Individuals, relationships and couples, groups

Duration: Long-term, short-term and time-limited, one-off check-ins, clinical assessments

Types of therapy: Existential, therapeutic coaching / career coaching, psychoanalytic, psychodynamic, psychoanalysis

Languages: English

Shelly’s professional registrations: NASW, MITPP, NIP